🥗 Italian Brussels Sprout Salad — Bold, Crunchy & Crowd-Pleasing

A crunchy, Mediterranean-inspired salad packed with flavor: shaved Brussels sprouts, salami, chickpeas, and zesty veggies, all tossed in tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for lunch or a hearty side!

Prep Time: 15 minutes · Servings: 4
Dietary Tags: Meat-Friendly · Vegetarian Option Available · Meal Prep Marvel

🌟 Table of Contents

  1. Why You’ll Love This Salad

  2. Ingredients You’ll Need

  3. Quick Recipe Steps

  4. Step‑by‑Step Guide

  5. Make‑Ahead & Swap Tips

  6. Nutritional Notes & W-W Tweaks

  7. FAQs & Pro Tips

  8. Kristy’s Note

  9. More Colorful Salad Ideas

  10. Snap & Share!

💛 1. Why You’ll Love This Salad

If you crave crunch, bold flavor, and filling satisfaction, this salad delivers. Shaved Brussels sprouts offer a satisfying bite while salami, chickpeas, tomatoes, and olives add protein and Mediterranean flair. My go-to hearty salad that lasts days in the fridge!

🛒 2. Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts (or thinly sliced)

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 8–10 slices salami, torn or chopped*(swap for pepperoni or omit for veggie-only)*

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained & rinsed

  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

  • ¼ cup black olives, sliced

  • ½ cup shaved Parmesan (or skip for dairy-free)

  • ½ cup Italian dressing or balsamic vinaigrette (use light for a W-W friendly option)

👩‍🍳 3. Quick Recipe Steps

  1. Toss shaved sprouts, veggies, salami, and chickpeas in a bowl.

  2. Drizzle vinaigrette and toss again.

  3. Top with shaved Parmesan and cracked pepper.

  4. Serve immediately or chill to let flavors meld.

🔄 4. Step‑by‑Step Guide

  1. Prepare Salad Base
    In a large bowl, combine shaved Brussels sprouts, halved cherry tomatoes, torn salami, chickpeas, sliced red onion, and black olives.

  2. Dress the Salad
    Drizzle with Italian or balsamic vinaigrette and toss until everything is evenly coated.

  3. Garnish & Serve
    Add shaved Parmesan on top, crack fresh black pepper, then serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor melding.

🥡 5. Make‑Ahead & Swap Tips

  • Meal-Prep Ready: Store salad and dressing separately—toss just before serving for max crunch. Keeps 3–4 days in fridge.

  • Veggie-Only Version: Skip salami for a vegetarian bowl—still hearty and filling!

  • Cheese-Free Option: Omit Parmesan or use dairy-free shreds.

  • Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs for extra satiety.

📊 6. Nutritional Notes & W-W Tweaks

  • W-W Friendly: Use a light vinaigrette and omit salami—approx. 4 SmartPoints per serving.

  • Loaded Option: Full-fat cheese and salami ups points to ~8–9, but still a flavorful indulgence.

  • Fiber & Protein: Chickpeas and sprouts boost both—great for blood sugar balance and staying full longer!

❓ 7. FAQs & Pro Tips

Can I use store-bought shaved sprouts?
Yes, or thinly slice fresh Brussels with a mandoline or sharp knife.

What dressing works best?
Italian vinaigrette is traditional; balsamic adds sweetness. Light versions help keep W-W Points low.

How long does it last?
Bowl alone lasts 3–4 days unrefrigerated. Once dressed, enjoy within 24 hours for best texture.

📝 8. Kristy’s Note

This salad is my recent obsession—it’s crunchy, satisfying, and practically makes itself. My Week 3 W-W clients love it because it’s fast, flavorful, and feels like a treat. It’s now a staple in my fridge fridge for lunches, potlucks, and easy side dishes!

🥗 9. More Colorful Salad Ideas

  • Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad

  • Mediterranean Chickpea Panzanella

  • Apple, Beet & Goat Cheese Salad

  • Southwest Quinoa & Black Bean Bowl

-📷 10. Snap & Share!

Made this salad? I’d love to see your colorful bowls—tag me @KristyCookRecipes on Instagram or drop a comment with your favorite swap! Let’s inspire each other with delicious, fresh meals. 🥗💚

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